The ship had tested the system several times while at sea to ensure the system would work properly during this live–fire exercise.

"This is basically preliminary testing," said Fire Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Maurice B. Richardson. "We have to make sure that it tracks and shoots effectively."

The CIWS shoots 4,500 22 millimeter tungsten rounds per minute. It is the last line of defense for carriers, so ensuring that it is in top working order is of the utmost importance to the ship and crew.

"The CIWS can track missiles or other threats from one nautical mile away," said Richardson.

The success of the test fire was in large part the result of the Sailors that operate the system and keep its maintenance schedule a top priority.

"The CIWS fired all 500 rounds without a hitch," said Richardson. "We are happy that it's over because that is a major item that must be operational for the ship."

Hundreds of systems across the ship must be tested, inspected and certified before the ship can deploy. Since departing from the ship's recent extended maintenance period, the crew has rapidly qualified in many areas.

Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing 1 are underway conducting work-ups for the ship's 21st deployment.